Scientists Uncover Neurons That Trick Our Senses into Seeing What's Not There

Scientists Uncover Neurons Behind Illusions of Perception A groundbreaking study published in Nature Neuroscience has identified a specific population of neurons in the visual cortex that play a direct role in representing visual illusions. The research, led by Hyeyoung Shin, an assistant professor of neuroscience at Seoul National University, reveals how our brains create the perception of edges and shapes even when they are not physically present. According to the study, these "IC-encoders" neurons are responsible for creating the illusion of contours in the brain. This is demonstrated through the classic example of the Kanizsa triangle, where three Pac-Man shapes create the perception of a bright white triangle floating on top. When the Pac-Men are hidden, the illusion disappears, revealing only a uniform background. Shin and her team used advanced imaging techniques to study the activity of these neurons in both primates and humans. Their findings confirm that IC-encoders are present in higher visual areas, including V1, and respond to illusory contours. This research has significant implications for our understanding of perception and how we process visual information. "We've known for a long time that illusions can be fun, but they're also a gateway to understanding perception," Shin said in an interview. "By studying these neurons, we can gain insights into how the brain creates the world we see." The study's findings have sparked interest among neuroscientists and psychologists, who are eager to explore the implications of this research. "This is a major breakthrough in our understanding of visual perception," said Dr. David Alais, a cognitive psychologist at the University of Sydney. "It opens up new avenues for research into how we perceive and process visual information." The study's results also have potential applications in fields such as art and design, where understanding the psychology of perception can inform creative decisions. As researchers continue to explore the intricacies of IC-encoders and their role in visual perception, this study marks an important milestone in our understanding of how the brain processes visual information. The findings of Shin's team provide a new perspective on the complex relationship between perception and reality. Background Illusory contours have been studied for over 20 years, with previous research describing neurons that respond to these edges in primates and later in humans and mice. However, this study is the first to identify a specific population of neurons responsible for creating these illusions. Current Status The study's findings are based on data collected from both primate and human subjects using advanced imaging techniques. The researchers plan to continue studying IC-encoders to better understand their role in visual perception. Next Developments Future research will focus on exploring the neural mechanisms underlying IC-encoder activity and how they interact with other brain regions to create the illusion of contours. This knowledge can lead to a deeper understanding of perception and potentially inform new treatments for neurological disorders related to vision. *Reporting by Arstechnica.*